Limelight

Many may consider the work of a nurse as tough and dirty. But after her ‘O’ levels, against the wishes of her parents, Madam Tan Tiew Yah, or Serene as she is known to her friends, decided to join the nursing profession on 1 Nov ember 1977. That was almost 30 years ago and she has not nlook ed back since.

For Serene, being a nurse is her calling. It’s something that she has always wanted to do since young.

In 1993, she started her career in Obste trics & Gynaecology (O&G) as a coordinator at the Singapore General Hospital. It was there where that she played a pivotal role in the set-up of the Gynae-Oncology Self-Help Group that was officially launched on 22 May 1998.

Recognising Serene’s devotion to her work, the National Cancer Centre Singapore offered her a position when it began operations in 1999. Today as a Senior Staff Nurse at the Specialist Oncology Clinic , though she is heavily loaded with work, she continues to volunteer by organising activities for the patients - even after office hours!

For her commitment and devotion to her work, it's not surprising that Serene is was among those who received the Efficiency Medal in this year's National Day awards.

Said Serene: “I’m happy (to receive the award), as it means that people notice me.” It is hard not to notice her as she has also won the SingHealth-Lee Foundation Nursing Excellence Award in 2004 and several NCCS’ CARE Awards.

Her husband and two sons aged 15 and 22, have always been very supportive of her volunteering her time for the patients. In fact, Serene’s husband helps by taking on the role of a photographer and mingles mingling at gatherings.